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Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell joins teaching staff

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell teaches the Government 340 International Relations course at the Liberty University Helms School of Government on Friday, April 11.

Students at Liberty University’s Helms School of Government are regularly afforded opportunities to hear from a wide range of influencers at all levels of government. This semester they heard from former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, who was recently invited to join the teaching staff at Liberty as a distinguished visiting professor in government.

McDonnell, a longtime friend of the university, said he is delighted to contribute to Liberty’s world-class academic programs and to train students to make a significant positive impact at every level of government.

“I am privileged to have the opportunity to teach the outstanding young people at Liberty University who will be future leaders for the state and nation. Liberty’s international reach, dynamic growth, and focus on excellence make it a force in higher education,” McDonnell said.

Liberty President Jerry Falwell said the university will tap McDonnell’s extensive career experience in business, law, public policy, and government.

“Gov. McDonnell will add another dimension to the educational experience of Liberty students by teaching leadership,” Falwell said. “He achieved great success as governor in making Virginia one of the nation’s most business-friendly and fiscally sound states while getting people to work together for the common good. These experiences uniquely qualify him to teach our students about every aspect of serving in public office.”

Dr. Shawn Akers, dean of the Helms School of Government, said the governor’s recent visit was a pleasant surprise to the students, who were eager to learn from a seasoned leader.

“The students’ eyes lit up when he walked into the class. They were so excited to hear directly from someone who has been on the frontlines of the important public policy battles in America,” Akers said. “The Helms School is proud to welcome Governor McDonnell, who has a proven record in public policy and conservative activism, and who shares in the biblical principles and servant leadership that are so important to Liberty University.”

McDonnell was the 71st governor of Virginia, holding office from 2010-13. He was Attorney General of Virginia from 2006 to 2009 and served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1992 to 2006. He is a former Virginia Beach prosecutor, business manager, and retired U.S. Army officer.